Back catalogue: Post Rock/Experimental

Review: RECOMMENDED
You always feel like you've pushed through the other side of the mirror when it comes to CAN. A mysterious, groove-laden, funk-infused yet utterly lucid place where guitar hooks seem to come out of the walls, rhythmic hypnosis draws listeners ever-deeper into a place that, while perhaps not entirely theirs, is one which they helped build in the outer limits of late-1960s surrealist rock.

Laying the foundations for early progressive and krautrock with an avant-garde approach to songwriting, by the time this Stuttgart gig took place they had almost a decade of work to go at, and yet as the tracklist suggests the band always had improvisation at their core in a live setting. Concerts that would transport crowds far beyond the venue, into thick layers of melody, hooks and strange effects, every single recording of every show is a genuine moment in history never to be repeated again.

Review: Live in Aston 1977, the latest installment in Can's series of live album releases, offers a fresh perspective on the band's dynamic stage presence. Released via Mute and Future Days, this release provides a glimpse into a challenging period for Can, following the mixed reception their eighth studio album, Saw Delight, elicited. Despite any expectations of a decline in energy or creativity, the live performances captured on this album defy such notions. Instead, they showcase Can's enduring vitality and adaptability, reaffirming their reputation as a band capable of captivating audiences with their unpredictable live shows. Notably, Live in Aston 1977 marks the debut of bassist Rosko Gee (Traffic) within the Can Live series. His addition to the lineup injects a fresh energy into the band's sound, complementing the innovative contributions of Irmin Schmidt, Jaki Liebezeit, Michael Karoli and Holger Czukay. Accompanied by a booklet, this release offers fans a deeper insight into Can's live performances during this period. It serves as a reminder of the band's relentless pursuit of sonic exploration and improvisation, making it a valuable addition to the Can discography for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.